High-throughput method for macrolides and lincosamides antibiotics residues analysis in milk and muscle using a simple liquid–liquid extraction technique and liquid chromatography–electrospray–tandem mass spectrometry analysis (LC–MS/MS)

A fast and simple method for residue analysis of the antibiotics classes of macrolides (erythromycin, azithromycin, tylosin, tilmicosin and spiramycin) and lincosamides (lincomycin and clindamycin) was developed and validated for cattle, swine and chicken muscle and for bovine milk. Sample preparation consists in a liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) with acetonitrile, followed by liquid chromatography–electrospray–tandem mass spectrometry analysis (LC–ESI-MS/MS), without the need of any additional clean-up steps. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a C18 column and a mobile phase composed by acidified acetonitrile and water. The method was fully validated according the criteria of the Commission Decision 2002/657/EC. Validation parameters such as limit of detection, limit of quantification, linearity, accuracy, repeatability, specificity, reproducibility, decision limit (CCα) and detection capability (CCβ) were evaluated. All calculated values met the established criteria. Reproducibility values, expressed as coefficient of variation, were all lower than 19.1%. Recoveries range from 60% to 107%. Limits of detection were from 5 to 25µgkg−1.The present method is able to be applied in routine analysis, with adequate time of analysis, low cost and a simple sample preparation protocol. [Display omitted] •A method for macrolides and lincosamides in milk and muscle was developed.•The method was fully validated according to Commission Decision 2002/657/EC.•Sample preparation is based on a single step using liquid–liquid extraction.•The method is easy, fast, cheap and environmental-friendly.